Sustainable Biz Magazine - Magazine - Page 8
FOCUS ON ULEZ
T
he introduction of ULEZ is a
significant policy response to
address air pollution in cities
and mitigate its harmful effects. Here we
explore the interconnectedness of these
events and their implications for public
health, environmental policy, and societal
actions in combating air pollution.
INTRODUCTION:
Air pollution is a global environmental and
public health concern. Among various air
pollutants, PM2.5 (particulate matter with
a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less) is
particularly hazardous due to its ability to
penetrate deep into the respiratory system
and enter the bloodstream. Over the years,
research has shown a strong link between
exposure to PM2.5 and a wide range of
health issues, including respiratory and
cardiovascular diseases. In this context,
the Public Health England (PHE) report on
PM2.5 adverse effects plays a crucial role
in raising awareness and informing policy
decisions to protect public health.
THE TRAGIC DEATH OF ELLA
KISSI-DEBRAH:
In 2013, a young girl named Ella KissiDebrah died at the age of nine after
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experiencing multiple asthma attacks. Her
death initially did not receive widespread
attention or connection to air pollution.
However, Ella's mother, Rosamund KissiDebrah, started to investigate the potential
role of air pollution in her daughter's
death. Ella lived near one of London's
busiest roads, which was consistently
exposed to high levels of air pollution,
particularly PM2.5 and nitrogen dioxide
(NO2).
Through her efforts, Rosamund gathered
evidence suggesting a correlation between
Ella's asthma attacks and spikes in air
pollution levels. Her determination and
persistence led to a reopening of Ella's
case, and in 2020, a landmark inquest
concluded that Ella's death was directly
attributed to air pollution exposure.
The significance of this case lies in its
recognition of air pollution as a direct
cause of death and the subsequent
implications it has for addressing air
quality issues in urban environments.
Public Health England (PHE) Report on
PM2.5 Adverse Effects:
In response to growing concerns about
air pollution, Public Health England
conducted a comprehensive study on
S USTAI N AB L E B I Z MAGAZINE
NOVEMBER 2023
the adverse effects of PM2.5 on public
health. The report, published in 2014,
highlighted the detrimental impact of
PM2.5 on respiratory and cardiovascular
health, linking it to an increased risk of
asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary
disease (COPD), heart attacks, and
premature deaths. The report's findings
shed light on the urgent need to address
air pollution and its associated health
risks, especially in densely populated
urban areas where exposure to high
levels of PM2.5 is common. It served as a
catalyst for governments, environmental
organizations, and communities to take
action in tackling air pollution through
evidence-based policies and initiatives.
INTRODUCTION OF ULTRA LOW
EMISSION ZONE (ULEZ):
One of the significant policy responses to
combat air pollution in London was the
introduction of the Ultra Low Emission
Zone (ULEZ) in April 2019. ULEZ is a
designated area in the city where vehicles
need to meet strict emission standards
or pay a daily charge to enter. The zone's
primary goal is to reduce emissions
from older, more polluting vehicles
and encourage the adoption of cleaner